3L Spotlight: Danielle DeLeon Spires

Danielle DeLeon Spires graduated this May from DePaul
University College of Law with a Juris Doctorate and Certificate in Health Law.
Danielle shared her interest in health law, experiences throughout law school,
and advice for current law students.

Danielle graduated from Ohio State University with a degree
in Political Science. Her interest in law developed when she was only seven years
old, however, her specific field of interest has changed over time. She
originally came to DePaul hoping to study immigration law, but after attending
several Health Law Institute lectures her 1L year, she noticed a shift in her
passion.

During law school, Danielle had several internships that
shaped her experience at DePaul. After her 1L year, Danielle worked at Catholic
Charities Legal Assistance, having the opportunity to experience different
types of law. She has also worked in various legal settings including a firm,
the Department of Justice, legal aid clinics, and legal services offices.
Currently, Danielle is working for DePaul’s Legal Services office.

One of Danielle’s favorite classes was the Fraud and Abuse
class taught by Professor Schostok. She found the class interesting and says
that anyone interested in health law should take this class. She also found
Administrative Law interesting. Danielle believes that DePaul provides numerous
opportunities to be able to have a wide variety of legal experiences.

Danielle’s advice for law students is to not panic about
less than stellar grades. She says to do your best, but that not everyone is
academically strong and that academics do not fully represent the kind of
person, or attorney, you will be. For all students, but especially those who
struggle academically, she recommends embracing every opportunity that comes
their way. She emphasizes the importance of making connections and networking
while pursuing these opportunities. Another important piece of advice she gives
to law students is to not be afraid to walk away from a job that is not working
out.

After graduation, Danielle is moving back to Ohio, her home
state, and is scheduled to take the July bar exam. Danielle is interested in working
within the health law field, specifically focusing on public benefits.

We at the E-Pulse wish Danielle good luck on the upcoming
bar exam and all the best in her future endeavors!